hi,

I have an older front tine rototiller that I'm trying to get working. Though the flywheel does turn when I pull the pull-cord, there are moments in the rotation in which the resistance is very strong -- so much so, that I can not get a full smooth pull and hence can not start the engine.

Any suggestions on what to do next?

Thank you.

-John

The compression release may be broken, or, if the valve lash has grown from normal wear the comp. release may have become ineffective. There can be other reasons, like carbon buildup that broke off and and is jamming the piston up, or a broken camshaft, but valve lash is the most likely. Or, it could be you may need to go back to the gym, yuk yuk.